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Dec 26, 2023
10:37 PM
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Proteins, essential components of every living cell, are intricately structured molecules, and understanding their building blocks is fundamental to comprehending their function. The building blocks of proteins are amino acids, organic compounds containing carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sometimes sulfur.
Amino Acids: The Foundation of Proteins
Proteins are polypeptides, formed by the linkage of amino acids through peptide bonds. There are 20 different amino acids that can combine in various sequences to create the diverse array of proteins found in nature. These amino acids share a common structure: a central carbon atom bonded to a hydrogen atom, an amino group (NH2), a carboxyl group (COOH), and a side chain, often referred to as the R-group, which gives each amino acid its unique properties.
Formation of Proteins: Amino Acid Sequences
The sequence of amino acids determines the protein's structure and function. The genetic code within DNA guides the order in which amino acids are assembled during protein synthesis. Once formed, proteins undergo intricate folding and bonding to achieve their final, functional conformation.
Understanding what are the building blocks of proteins, namely amino acids, provides insights into the complexity of these molecules and their indispensable role in the biological processes that sustain life.
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